scope:

This handbook looks at the maintenance of the component parts of junctionwork and offers practical guidance on the best ways to prevent failure.

The primary maintenance activity of condition monitoring or inspection is covered throughout the handbook in relation to what needs to be inspected and measured for each component or configuration. The handbook does not contain specific details of inspection regimes, which are dealt with in Track Handbook 10 Inspecting the track.

Section 4 provides an overview of junctionwork, describing the basic units and layouts, and their fundamental maintenance requirements. The planning of junctionwork maintenance activities is discussed in section 5.

The maintenance of the track bed is covered in section 6, which deals with both ballasted and concreted systems. Section 7 deals with bearers, and common rail supports and fastenings are discussed in section 8. The problems associated with the inspection and maintenance of the plain running rails and rail joints connecting the various junctionwork units to form layouts are considered in section 9. Maintaining the basic units of points and crossings, their special equipment, supports and fastenings are the subjects of sections 10 and 11 respectively.

Section 12 covers the maintenance of the special configuration of conductor rails needed in junctionwork and the particular problems that can arise through conductor rail movement. Ancillary equipment, such as point heaters, is covered in section 13.

Purpose

The purpose of this handbook is to offer advice on the maintenance of junctionwork. It is intended to assist managers in their day-to-day decisions. The aim is to ensure that junctionwork meets the requirements of track standards and fulfils the corporate objectives of improved safety, quality and asset performance.